8/20/2013

It's been an eventful summer for the NHL, and that means speculation is already heating up as to what we'll http://www.sportsunbiased.com/ for a clear look at the new divisions as they now stand.
be seeing in the 2013-2014 season. In addition to the Entry Draft, this summer saw the dramatic realignment of hockey divisions (into a 2 conference, 2 divisions each format), meaning new match-ups and team groupings. You can visit

But with summer largely behind us, how are teams stacking up for the coming season? At http://betting.betfair.com/, betting odds are already posted for each team's chances at winning the Stanley Cup! So let's take a look at the 10 teams with the best odds (and don't worry - the Penguins are on top!).

10. Washington Capitals (18/1 odds)
The Capitals may be in trouble. They made no moves to get better this offseason, and they'll have to compete in the stacked new "Metropolitan" Division.

9. Toronto Maple Leafs (18/1)
The Leafs were fairly strong in the shortened season, and have added a strong second goalie in Jonathan Bernier, as well as a talented scorer in David Clarkson. This is a team to watch.

8. Anaheim Ducks (16/1)
"Rebuild" is too dramatic a term, but the Ducks are likely in waiting mode before they'll be back on top. Still, this looks like a decent playoff team.

7. Montreal Canadiens (16/1)
This team earned a 2-seed in the East last season, and hasn't lost any crucial pieces. That said, most felt they overachieved last season, and goalie Carey Price will need to return to top form for them to compete.

6. Vancouver Canucks (14/1)
This team is a bit in limbo with a new coach in place and a seemingly patient approach to bringing in fresh talent. They're capable, but could disappoint as well.

5. St. Louis Blues (12/1)
This team is on its way, and has gone through the process of learning and improving through losses. It could be a big year for the Blues.

4. Los Angeles Kings (10/1)
Bernier and Scuderi are tough losses, but the Kings are a proven juggernaut. One feels that as long as Jonathan Quick is manning the pipes, this team will be in the mix.

3. Boston Bruins (10/1)
The Bruins are built to win, but after giving as much as they gave to reach the Finals last season, and after losing Tyler Seguin, they can't quite be called favorites.

2. Chicago Blackhawks (5/1)
This team is basically unchanged since winning the Cup, having added Nikolai Khabibulin and lost Dave Bolland and a few less significant pieces. There's always the "hangover" to fear, but the Hawks should be in the thick of the race again.

1. Pittsburgh Penguins (5/1)
The Penguins are still feeling the sting of that awful Bruins series, but nonetheless return arguably the most talented team in hockey. Rob Scuderi should give the defense a handy boost.